Research of the nation’s dog owners has revealed as many as half (50%) admit they spend more on their pet’s birthday than their own partner’s, with 70% celebrating their pampered dogs birthday every year with gifts.
22% of the dog owners polled said their pet’s birthday was one of their favourite days of the year, while 24% claim it has become even more of a special event since lockdown.
The study, by Forthglade natural pet food, found the average British dog owner will have splashed out £62 on their canine’s birthday this year – with 50% of those in a relationship not ashamed to admit that they always spend more on their dog than their partner’s birthday.
More than half (54%) of the nation’s canine companions will receive new toys for their birthday this year, while 39% will sit down to enjoy a gourmet meal, either handmade by their owner or bought in especially.
A third (33%) of dogs will receive a snazzy new collar, 29% will start the day with a deluxe birthday breakfast, 31% will be lucky enough to listen to their owner sing ‘happy birthday’ to them, and 27% will tuck into a dog friendly birthday cake.
18% of dogs will receive a birthday card on their special day, while two in five (40%) will be taken on an extra-long walk as a special treat, while 44% will enjoy extra cuddles on the sofa, before settling down to watch a favourite dog themed film like Lassie or 101 Dalmatians (11%).
Little wonder then, perhaps, that three quarters (73%) claim their canine companion is their ‘soulmate’.
Managing Director of Forthglade, Gerard Lovell, said: “It’s no surprise to hear people enjoy making their dogs feel extra special, especially during a year where relationships with our beloved dogs have proven so valuable and appreciated by so many.
“We hope our limited-edition birthday recipe will be the icing on the cake for many dogs enjoying extra TLC. Making this special meal seemed the perfect way to recognise our 50-year history making natural dog food for the nation’s canine companions.”
The study also found that it is the under 30s who spend the most on their canine’s birthday’s – £70 per pet. This compares to the over-60s, who spend just £19 on their four-legged friend.
Meanwhile, 46% of the nation’s dog owners believe that Gen Zs are far more likely to spend more on gifts for their pampered dogs birthday, with 55% of 16-29-year-olds admitting they often feel influenced by social media when it comes to treating and spoiling their four-legged friend.
Forthglade recipes are available at all good pet shops, popular supermarkets, online retailers and forthglade.com. Learn more about the range of natural meals and hand-baked grain free treats at www.forthglade.com
